Saturday night, 10,000 cyclists gear up for L.A.T.E. Ride 2008, the annual moonlight spin through Chicago streets. But the two-wheeled fun doesn’t have to end when the sun comes up Sunday morning—Chicago has trails galore, and some of our best-kept secrets are most accessible by bike. Whether you’re an experienced pedal pusher or you barely know how to buckle a helmet, we’ve found three local trails that work for everyone—and assembled a mini-guide to get you on your way.
North Branch Trail
Cool off in the forest preserve shade as you follow the north branch (get it?) of the Chicago River. Families and groups of friends pop in and out along the trail, but at approximately 40 miles roundtrip, the path also attracts experienced cyclists who want room to enjoy a muscle-building calorie burn.
Grab a bite at Caldwell’s Kitchen & Tap, which boasts an 80-seat bar and two outdoor patios. At the trail’s north end, explore nine islands’ worth of flowers, trees, prairies, waterways and wildlife at the Chicago Botanic Gardens.
On the return trip, get a second wind with a cocktail on the stone-paved patio at Morrison Roadhouse and then revive yourself at journey’s end with a dip in Whealan Aquatic Center ($5), which features a zero-depth entrance, free lounge chairs and two water slides, all in a forest preserve setting.
North Lakeshore Trail
The stretch from Hollywood Avenue to Navy Pier is the nightclub of bike paths—it’s bustling, great for people watching and you’ll almost always cross paths with someone you know.
As you round the curve at Ohio Street Beach, your nose will alert you to the Robinson’s Ribs trailer, which offers boneless barbecued rib sandwiches for $5. Cruise through the tall iron gates at Olive Park and eat your lunch among the fountains, manicured lawns, canopy of trees and two skyline and lake observation platforms.
On your way back north, cool off at Montrose Park Beach, which features jet ski and kayak rentals and a bait shop a block inland if you want to relax on the pier with a fishing pole. Thirsty? Exit at Foster and head west; park your ride at Charlie’s Ale House in Andersonville and grab a table along the open windows or under an umbrella along the flower-bedecked sidewalk patio.
South Lakeshore Trail
Looking for some solitude with stunning views? South of the Museum Campus, you’ll pretty much have the path to yourself—and those you do encounter will smile or say hello as you ride by.
Stop at 31st Street Beach for homemade Italian ice ($3.50-$4.50) and a panino ($6), then hop back in the saddle and circle around Promontory Point (at 55th Street) for three-sided lake views.
On your way home from the trail’s end at the South Shore Cultural Center, swing through Jackson Park to the Osaka Japanese Garden on Wooded Island (at 58th Street). Reward yourself for all that exercise with a drink amid the above-bar harpoon and ship’s wheel chandeliers at cozy nautical-themed bar The Cove, located just west of the trail in East Hyde Park.
[ Julia Borcherts is a Metromix special contributor. ] metromix@tribune.com
